Not too long ago, Fujifilm released the X100 compact digital camera. This camera gained a lot of press for its design, which was, let’s face it, sheer genius. Instead of building a digital camera out of cheap parts, Fujifilm built a camera that looked and felt retro – the good sense of the word – in every aspect.
Users can turn, adjust, and feel the weight of the X100, which simply feels great. The only problem is that the X100 is very expensive (over $1000), and the reviews didn’t match the price.

Not wanting to give up on the idea of a solidly built retro-inspired camera, Fujifilm created the X10. The X10 has been in the works for awhile, and Fujifilm has just released this camera. This version retails for $699 (still more than other digitals, though worth the price for some shutterbugs).

X10 Features

The X10 still has all the looks of the X100. Fujifilm’s X10 comes with a manual focus (something that many people will prefer), an optical viewfinder, and a 28-112mm f/2.0-2.8 zoom. This camera also comes with movie mode, which is fun if you enjoy features of this sort. When tested, all reviews came up positive, and the X10 seems to hold its own.

If you have had the chance to check out the X100, you’ll note that the X10 is significantly lighter than its elder brother. Generally, lighter is better in the technical world, but this is not always the case. When it comes to cameras, those who enjoy photography for photography’s sake (not the point-and-click market) tend to prefer a heavier camera. Still, the X10 is heavier (and much better looking) than most other digitals on the market today.

Design

You really have to look at this camera in order to appreciate the design that Fujifilm has come up with. If you have a collection of older cameras (1950s – 1970s), you will find both the X100 and X10 very familiar. There’s something great about the X10’s alloy and aluminum body. The manual controls put you in charge, and the sheer solidity of the camera is enjoyable to the max.

Some may even purchase this camera for the look of it alone. It is such a far cry from today’s cheaply made plastic offerings that it really stands out. If you have the chance to test out the X100 or the X10 when it arrives, you will understand what I’m talking about. It’s easy to wax poetic about a camera that doesn’t follow all of today’s lack-luster, boring, and cheaply made forms.

Availability

Even though Fujifilm has put out quite a detailed press release about the X10, this camera is not yet available to the public. But don’t fear, the X10 will be ready for purchase right around the holiday season when every other device on the market heads to electronics stores everywhere.

If you have a true camera fanatic in your household, this is one camera that you may want to consider purchasing as a gift. Sure, it’s still a bit pricey, but it promises to be an excellent camera worthy of a place on your shelf.